tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22632144449271675082023-11-16T23:36:15.302+13:00The Life & Times of an English TeacherAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-43120110929871744902014-06-24T21:26:00.002+12:002014-06-24T21:26:40.296+12:00A Year Has Passed... What Happened?It has been a year and a week since I last updated this blog.... And now, here we are.. Another rant for you all to enjoy...<br />
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What has happened over the past year? Well...<br />
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1) NZ Graduation (30th November 2013)<br />
This was, literally, the 2nd best day of my life! Even though my parents were not able to make it there with me, at least they gave me a chance to experience the uniqueness of the graduation ceremony in Dunedin... And let me tell you: being back in NZ after a year was like a dream... Walking past those familiar shops and streets, looking back at the places I've been and stayed was like walking down memory lane.. And the best part was meeting old friends and lecturers!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeemin, Naserah, myself and Loh Chuan Tuck</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adam, myself and Kah Yenn</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bellina and I</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proud degree holder~</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Freddy, Jane, and Dulcie</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Dulcie and Freddy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In front of the clocktower</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yazid, Shah and I receiving our degrees</td></tr>
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2) Interview and stuff<br />
After the graduation ceremony, comes the long unemployment period... And after I was done with the Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Pelajaran Malaysia (SPP) interview, I went along to being temp teachers to two schools.. Both were secondary schools, both offered me to teach different subjects, both have their own students' problems. I won't say much on that but as far as I was concerned, primary school is nothing compared to secondary school..<br />
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3) Posting!<br />
On April 1st, we all got our posting i.e our first placement as a full-fledged teacher.. And surprise, surprise.. I got sent to the deep jungle! Although not as deep as some of my friends and not as far away as some others too, my school is a category 1 of the rural areas.. I won't say the name of the school but more of the experiences to come!<br />
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4) Malaysian Graduation (10th June 2014)<br />
Being in a twinning programme means one thing: double graduation!! And our graduation in Malaysia was super fun too (although, not as exciting as the NZ one) and this time, my parents get to be a part of it!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With some of my dear friends</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2raHqCBn0Ya1_6io8XbqxzgxMO4hTYObCMEh4oZnivXw39WFYGaIIho3ptDqqV_mNr-F6tZt0f8dhGInO9eLZj8ngKuTfmIyUy_FFwLm-zgfrYvpmK1EeKAN3E71pi68p6A6zes1FJl0/s1600/P6100150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2raHqCBn0Ya1_6io8XbqxzgxMO4hTYObCMEh4oZnivXw39WFYGaIIho3ptDqqV_mNr-F6tZt0f8dhGInO9eLZj8ngKuTfmIyUy_FFwLm-zgfrYvpmK1EeKAN3E71pi68p6A6zes1FJl0/s1600/P6100150.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Diana and my mom</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">^___^</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2rK3M95yxUYtRYNSArjYb2YKPsgZLcGrSjJUH4dlwT3oG7MoLiZp3ORkP9fNthDoLxxUaYKfQ1h5IqYLUXbQNxUj3rubsECah-LlAPyhUxYdHpaS3QTqunju_FbJ9oW6BVeJQKjrhO_g/s1600/P6100153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2rK3M95yxUYtRYNSArjYb2YKPsgZLcGrSjJUH4dlwT3oG7MoLiZp3ORkP9fNthDoLxxUaYKfQ1h5IqYLUXbQNxUj3rubsECah-LlAPyhUxYdHpaS3QTqunju_FbJ9oW6BVeJQKjrhO_g/s1600/P6100153.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well, that is all for this post... More to come on my school experiences so, stay tuned!<br />
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With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-33545961821412311642013-06-14T04:05:00.003+12:002013-06-14T04:05:50.675+12:00The Journey to the Two Holy Mosques: Al Masjid Al Haram and Al Masjid Al Nabawi... And a short stop at Muscat, Oman...Salam and hello, my fellow followers!<div>
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First of all, the reason I didn't update this blog was not because I was busy or anything.. It's just plain old laziness... So, there... And no, that's not an apology..</div>
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As you can see from the title, this entry will be a different kind of ranting.. Not a bad one, but a good one... Especially to all my Muslim friends out there...</div>
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I went to perform my Umrah two weeks back (22nd May - 5th June 2013) and it was a very relaxing and peaceful trip... Here, I am going to share all my experiences when I was there.. And it's gonna be a long, LONG post...</div>
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Day 1 (KL-Muscat-Jeddah)</div>
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The first day was basically flights... First flight was from KLIA to Muscat and we took off at about 9:55am Malaysian time and arrived in Muscat around 12:30pm Oman time (Malaysia and Oman have a 4 hour difference). We transited at Oman for a few hours for our flight to Jeddah at 11:00pm Oman time... We then arrived at Jeddah at around 1:10am the next day Saudi time (Oman and Saudi Arabia have a 1 hour difference). Once we landed and got through customs, we got our luggages and went straight for the bus to Madinah..</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A screenshot of my journey from KLIA to Muscat... We used Oman Air for all our flights throughout our trip...</td></tr>
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Day 2 - Day 4 (Madinah Al-Munawwarah)</div>
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We arrived at Madinah at around 7:00am. We stayed at the Mubarak Silver Hotel, which was not far from the Al Masjid Al Nabawi... We stayed there for about 4 days before going to Makkah Al-Mukarramah. While we were there, we visited some of the historic places that are important to the history of Islam and of the Prophet S.A.W. We also visited the date farm and bought a great deal of dates!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "umbrellas" outside Al Masjid Al Nabawi... They open during the day and close during the night...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many doors of the Al Nabawi Mosque...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_65OvCTbhrxrxxCnMhyU9K4q_QZVXJvf9TrjfPRcUJd4OKjZntRA8_M6lTZ34Naym2_JauUdrth96-1cfVJNrdF1QxM6FuStJD6-BPqQvf8cbSF30CuGeOOZOAkQQgnTxmptrUZWZL4/s1600/20130523_100940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_65OvCTbhrxrxxCnMhyU9K4q_QZVXJvf9TrjfPRcUJd4OKjZntRA8_M6lTZ34Naym2_JauUdrth96-1cfVJNrdF1QxM6FuStJD6-BPqQvf8cbSF30CuGeOOZOAkQQgnTxmptrUZWZL4/s320/20130523_100940.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entrance to visit the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.'s tomb...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTmcdw84n7GWN_g9GpAkriOd9poojFzBF5adeI73w0CQwRUezjGFrE5Qi59kpw73vKaO0wNs92BjEu4bKHbYoW1KqDet2mEdpPDf88HOAwQpe0n-KrybK89F-ehlYNf3EUpfuTv0apgk/s1600/20130523_101759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTmcdw84n7GWN_g9GpAkriOd9poojFzBF5adeI73w0CQwRUezjGFrE5Qi59kpw73vKaO0wNs92BjEu4bKHbYoW1KqDet2mEdpPDf88HOAwQpe0n-KrybK89F-ehlYNf3EUpfuTv0apgk/s320/20130523_101759.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Prophet's tomb...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWWOmnnEN_XbLKfwO_bN3OzmY1tLDE4Qs6PrvnJPXAbZV1u-3t64gltQUAYKnfJkcwXg7Iqf5Tnkcv-rDeJDeuGzUltxAHCLWk-Fhy-Y_RH_TH-VlFgbVL_gowrf3A4Vq4uqnV2Tgr38/s1600/20130523_104422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWWOmnnEN_XbLKfwO_bN3OzmY1tLDE4Qs6PrvnJPXAbZV1u-3t64gltQUAYKnfJkcwXg7Iqf5Tnkcv-rDeJDeuGzUltxAHCLWk-Fhy-Y_RH_TH-VlFgbVL_gowrf3A4Vq4uqnV2Tgr38/s320/20130523_104422.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Prophet's podium..</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLjtuK4SJTGisjoPRjn6JiB_qBPCon3Q89lFYm25t8UZESHHK7j_fX86chyv5mW6tDAc0iHZFtLtUSbAKXfx1BHEDXrw7GnFL4mTYigZfCBJac0LV2q-nFi4CPba3h-YLsWZBukLOF9k/s1600/20130523_111243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLjtuK4SJTGisjoPRjn6JiB_qBPCon3Q89lFYm25t8UZESHHK7j_fX86chyv5mW6tDAc0iHZFtLtUSbAKXfx1BHEDXrw7GnFL4mTYigZfCBJac0LV2q-nFi4CPba3h-YLsWZBukLOF9k/s320/20130523_111243.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some more of the "umbrellas" inside the mosque...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXhRQgNEkO90Cc1IWmADC_5Q0ICEgAC6qI8OEle9EVGgjlXW4h3uPygKF6Pu_-M_eQVhZrnCJ9KgCitmWqqAbnEw4EGP5nML3NIi6YKxfN8pHTprefS_NPww1q2mNLgH3EBgW-8PBh1iI/s1600/20130524_045307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXhRQgNEkO90Cc1IWmADC_5Q0ICEgAC6qI8OEle9EVGgjlXW4h3uPygKF6Pu_-M_eQVhZrnCJ9KgCitmWqqAbnEw4EGP5nML3NIi6YKxfN8pHTprefS_NPww1q2mNLgH3EBgW-8PBh1iI/s320/20130524_045307.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view outside the mosque at night...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIVKcP38S0HbB22yiK8Y6saZGVNg5AmWkMdDK7VdNSAemuGJXAYOKOwdq7kSf0l2d55brKHl_JZylasWzzA2OHUv8Yr-tzfFl3z4vK-3XAxXqju5TqNmMm8Ct87U0LV-pCn6OY6qROlsA/s1600/20130525_080415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIVKcP38S0HbB22yiK8Y6saZGVNg5AmWkMdDK7VdNSAemuGJXAYOKOwdq7kSf0l2d55brKHl_JZylasWzzA2OHUv8Yr-tzfFl3z4vK-3XAxXqju5TqNmMm8Ct87U0LV-pCn6OY6qROlsA/s320/20130525_080415.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In front of Quba Mosque, the first mosque built by the Prophet...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAp68wy_eypsNG_COs9uAR835gAwKXZyeBlmkRAOrQpfErm4SND_9iFMRf_5qVtKlazzFt6RnyVDfP-qdxi8i8Y7ajW8U-KifhP8TQcMZs9e7IRrCJ6hkRhYRijjGn2VRhSjTPM0emQWY/s1600/20130525_084704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAp68wy_eypsNG_COs9uAR835gAwKXZyeBlmkRAOrQpfErm4SND_9iFMRf_5qVtKlazzFt6RnyVDfP-qdxi8i8Y7ajW8U-KifhP8TQcMZs9e7IRrCJ6hkRhYRijjGn2VRhSjTPM0emQWY/s320/20130525_084704.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the dates being sold at the date farm...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2uki5FKnJGwI0yRhRKNJTneqzQufOiMnJTSfOP8e-Orqhi0Mfls2e1pmWioBvBjK9ftR_txbzHTP3WNZPpb0wToYSMGzrPaDziskF-p7U6Ks-UF9Aa4v5UdxQbHvG7iLjcEfnncTKqY/s1600/20130525_100545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2uki5FKnJGwI0yRhRKNJTneqzQufOiMnJTSfOP8e-Orqhi0Mfls2e1pmWioBvBjK9ftR_txbzHTP3WNZPpb0wToYSMGzrPaDziskF-p7U6Ks-UF9Aa4v5UdxQbHvG7iLjcEfnncTKqY/s320/20130525_100545.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My family at Jabal Uhud, there the famous Uhud war was faught between the Muslims and the Musyrikins...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDcBBmE-40u6ZXT7O1bmXfaERKiQ2-q1gX4ln4EcKH0aCxSH9H408COLjGKU_-apYYXPBjjIoP8QTVH2ckVUBKI-q6U680eHN7zrBuYdJ-CNxlaHvH2noPMr50VbasdMzdJIIp61ZffI/s1600/20130525_101222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDcBBmE-40u6ZXT7O1bmXfaERKiQ2-q1gX4ln4EcKH0aCxSH9H408COLjGKU_-apYYXPBjjIoP8QTVH2ckVUBKI-q6U680eHN7zrBuYdJ-CNxlaHvH2noPMr50VbasdMzdJIIp61ZffI/s320/20130525_101222.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jabal Uhud</td></tr>
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Day 5 - Day 13 (Makkah Al-Mukarramah)<br />
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We performed our first Umrah with the Mutawwif there at midnight. This was because we arrived in Makkah Al-Mukarramah quite late due to the long bus trip. Even so, it was quite easy because there were not many people and the mosque was not that packed. The first Umrah was done with ease, thanks to Him...</div>
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Throughout my stay in Makkah, I performed Umrah seven times, which was quite an achievement for me.. Thanks to my dad who constantly reminding us of the reason we were there, I was able to put all the ridiculous things behind me and focused on getting salvation from Allah... And it was easy for me to perform all the deeds (pray, recite the Quran, fasting, etc.)...</div>
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The best part would be getting the chances to go to the places that are "mustajab" to pray.. I even got to touch the holy Kaabah! Subhanallah, what a feeling it was to actually see the Kaabah with my own eyes and to be able to touch it with my bare hands...</div>
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On the day we were leaving Makkah, I cried after performing Tawaf Wida'.. It was then I thought to myself: would I be able to visit this place again? Will I be given another chance, this time, to perform my Hajj? Will my friends be able to experience what I have experienced? I hope Allah will grant my wishes...</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLyZy20z7tI2ILd5r_hke_541Fo5fORw_Vz9eQJmMyA6JNwCoeqUwlGUfhcHQFdmIdBr87ZkSQqdnV_XaoYdB41ilfyOhiR2gDhYWbmrHxc8sedQSrIsLAi3ioeECgv5Fr7YyiFKEO2jA/s1600/20130527_010345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLyZy20z7tI2ILd5r_hke_541Fo5fORw_Vz9eQJmMyA6JNwCoeqUwlGUfhcHQFdmIdBr87ZkSQqdnV_XaoYdB41ilfyOhiR2gDhYWbmrHxc8sedQSrIsLAi3ioeECgv5Fr7YyiFKEO2jA/s320/20130527_010345.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My family in front of the Holy Kaabah...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wUx6NiEScLGxauyZsM6-vPdHVjDj6oEDX1re3QcqpzCwVSnpCV4BFclb0ZEcSnv92jjOZBSvOofwVHa6kRwlpuqg2S6fNp5sk_EXnRXL3gyYwSXFrPCRWKrfCn0mNEycHqHcvTgqNTs/s1600/20130527_113404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wUx6NiEScLGxauyZsM6-vPdHVjDj6oEDX1re3QcqpzCwVSnpCV4BFclb0ZEcSnv92jjOZBSvOofwVHa6kRwlpuqg2S6fNp5sk_EXnRXL3gyYwSXFrPCRWKrfCn0mNEycHqHcvTgqNTs/s320/20130527_113404.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My siblings, my dad and I after our second Umrah... We shaved our heads!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGf_pQOZ4iCvspspmlitdTzalDSzLl3o-PFmHdpe_eHwGnHTr5kiFkXT-SDxJdtcmCXJvbSISN9CxnQeTfG5f3HWhiQG-VrGwsj21fUUzKTjMxHSc85jSPUwajx5cyLD7PHt2oMH14Yx8/s1600/20130528_073539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGf_pQOZ4iCvspspmlitdTzalDSzLl3o-PFmHdpe_eHwGnHTr5kiFkXT-SDxJdtcmCXJvbSISN9CxnQeTfG5f3HWhiQG-VrGwsj21fUUzKTjMxHSc85jSPUwajx5cyLD7PHt2oMH14Yx8/s320/20130528_073539.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In front of Jabal Thur, where the Prophet PBUH and Saidina Abu Bakar hid from the enemies...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEincCKLkEWyBKiFsmL7DREouuShffNviT5pJAynhhYXrC6PmXf8zcUZqk2aKpTdZO8IBuJ9MWQaMmzEKgX0R8qYsaqn1QA1e200UBghqLOM97VuR7FQDeLxcbvXA1ntPJPzYYFVci_G8Gw/s1600/20130528_193423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEincCKLkEWyBKiFsmL7DREouuShffNviT5pJAynhhYXrC6PmXf8zcUZqk2aKpTdZO8IBuJ9MWQaMmzEKgX0R8qYsaqn1QA1e200UBghqLOM97VuR7FQDeLxcbvXA1ntPJPzYYFVci_G8Gw/s320/20130528_193423.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and the Holy Kaabah...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SDpFkCe0bc1heizVnMecxaeJWWnAFg8zPoGkdmWW5wVoGvNzaTzbODT-hsBq8B5C7bh9JkALjwZk6-2tGJa-2XIspk6QONYHFQojP8tLHMNKEglz30Plu8WkZ7a3pVlZsaqnn-wYtww/s1600/20130528_203818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SDpFkCe0bc1heizVnMecxaeJWWnAFg8zPoGkdmWW5wVoGvNzaTzbODT-hsBq8B5C7bh9JkALjwZk6-2tGJa-2XIspk6QONYHFQojP8tLHMNKEglz30Plu8WkZ7a3pVlZsaqnn-wYtww/s320/20130528_203818.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Holy Kaabah and Zam Zam Tower in the background...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3S_Jmms1ry7cLKJQiAk04oujBcZJ-FycYHFYUpYmqmup_AY2wP9nt6z4wTnGswE_1PvakALrcJ_EouddqL4fVgyUXYcHlpDilqRFruy9nVQEjMmTxAu2tIzXC9d9CMf5xWeMcIsdHTso/s1600/20130531_235902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3S_Jmms1ry7cLKJQiAk04oujBcZJ-FycYHFYUpYmqmup_AY2wP9nt6z4wTnGswE_1PvakALrcJ_EouddqL4fVgyUXYcHlpDilqRFruy9nVQEjMmTxAu2tIzXC9d9CMf5xWeMcIsdHTso/s320/20130531_235902.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiraa' Cave, where the Prophet PBUH met Jibril and was made a prophet.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXUKZKn8YEye715xCHNguvSZP_HgPfjf1PDZhvRLNfA-WXaoHR5curpntFbsy2CHjvkzhLt7TjD9qJGtEVQxVgc_swaiJTMj12kI4J4YgaDsLtHnLC24qf0JBnQLZViNIJ7FTaQHTQ8U/s1600/20130603_143137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXUKZKn8YEye715xCHNguvSZP_HgPfjf1PDZhvRLNfA-WXaoHR5curpntFbsy2CHjvkzhLt7TjD9qJGtEVQxVgc_swaiJTMj12kI4J4YgaDsLtHnLC24qf0JBnQLZViNIJ7FTaQHTQ8U/s320/20130603_143137.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My family and Kaabah...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOTXwdxantBbIYi0Q59NkzwfXSK_HzKsXl7hjE9A2Uye2YU0iaWZdZG6t5j-hv2IEmBMVkmv7IRpAzrpL6vc_hNlrPcdRIDl9vzEo1lrl8YeCbD6O5-Mn3Z8_L8YM1fhbMOYSC9CoG6k/s1600/20130603_174617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOTXwdxantBbIYi0Q59NkzwfXSK_HzKsXl7hjE9A2Uye2YU0iaWZdZG6t5j-hv2IEmBMVkmv7IRpAzrpL6vc_hNlrPcdRIDl9vzEo1lrl8YeCbD6O5-Mn3Z8_L8YM1fhbMOYSC9CoG6k/s320/20130603_174617.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Haram-Halal boundary, marking the start of Haram area...</td></tr>
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Day 14-15 (Makkah-Jeddah-Muscat-KL)</div>
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<div>
We left for Jeddah at about 2:30pm and waited a good few hours for our flight to Muscat. We took off from Jeddah to Muscat at about 3:00am on 4th June.. We arrived in Muscat at around 6:55am Oman time.. While waiting for our flight, we rested for a few hours at a hotel and went on a short tour around Muscat.. We get to see the Grand Mosque, went to the Muttrah Souq (Market) and even went to see the Sultan's Palace. What a trip it was! We left Muscat at around 9:15pm Oman time and arrived safely in KLIA at around 8:25am Malaysian time...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When we flew home, each of us were given 10 litres of Zam Zam water. I am so happy!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My aunt, mom, sister and grandma inside the Grand Mosque...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole group outside the Grand Mosque...</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sultan's Palace..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was quite a short trip, but it was really worth it... I really miss the holy lands now, thinking will I ever return... Only Allah knows...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope you have enjoyed reading this entry as much as I have enjoyed sharing it with you all... I pray that every one of you who read this (if you are a Muslim) will be given a chance to visit the holy lands...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Till then!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With all due respect,</div>
<div>
Hafiz Khairuddin</div>
Are-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-71420326507074729632012-09-09T20:05:00.002+12:002012-09-09T20:05:56.174+12:00of friends, dreams, and hope...Somehow, updating this blog has not been a frequent habit as I wished I would have.. But then, updating it once in a while would be really great and now, here I am updating about what has been going on with my life for the past few months...<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am going to miss this place very much...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This year is my final year here in New Zealand... I know, time flies by really fast and I actually dreamed to stay here a bit longer, at least another year... But then, being away from home for almost 2 years is already a pain to me... Because there's no place like home...<br />
<br />
Speaking of home, there are a few reasons why someone would call a place "home"... Here's my reason why I would call a place "home":<br />
<br />
1) It's where family is (obviously)<br />
2) It's where you feel safe<br />
3) It's where people really care about you<br />
4) It's where you can be yourself without others judging you<br />
5) It's where friends are...<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goofing around with Ivan..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzHgev851FrWR4BScA_qed6tICuAGUf1Mrg76J3VIj1-1ADTuNGf7a_P_RYOHo8ig6xakvwJzG-SYe7K_eG8_dlckinOYl4eEs_-yGORXsJywO7LmO9FEmoauKf6U7-7zbBUmUpNUyfY/s1600/IMG_0913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzHgev851FrWR4BScA_qed6tICuAGUf1Mrg76J3VIj1-1ADTuNGf7a_P_RYOHo8ig6xakvwJzG-SYe7K_eG8_dlckinOYl4eEs_-yGORXsJywO7LmO9FEmoauKf6U7-7zbBUmUpNUyfY/s320/IMG_0913.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naserah, Jane, Elfira and I...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLs6dWCDT_UzHacJG6iloOMc0YBO_3RXMVIb_WWc9s0SAw3CmDz7vPth_5Bx-tW04BG608bNnEX1Gn_fMFWrhiiQWHzju9d3pastRxeTUs1sQjQuhb4dSUVY6qU7MRf9FZpdd_pEzCm8/s1600/IMG_1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLs6dWCDT_UzHacJG6iloOMc0YBO_3RXMVIb_WWc9s0SAw3CmDz7vPth_5Bx-tW04BG608bNnEX1Gn_fMFWrhiiQWHzju9d3pastRxeTUs1sQjQuhb4dSUVY6qU7MRf9FZpdd_pEzCm8/s320/IMG_1017.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Addy and I...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And speaking of friends, I attended a barbecue event to celebrate 3 of my newly-met friends this afternoon and as I was standing in a corner watching all of them, I find myself thinking: would I still have friends who are as awesome as these are back in Malaysia? The ones that are so open and fun? Deep down inside, I know I will because right now, apart from my TESL friends, they are all waiting for me back home... The atmosphere will be different, that I'm sure.. And I will have to control myself and my openness.. But one thing that will stay the same will be this: the same feeling will always be there. That feeling like they are only looking at you because they know you'll be around when they need you and forget you the minute they get what they want... I will always feel that way, and I'm cool with that... Because they also have other friends than me.. So long as they understand that I too have feelings, and so long as I know and believe that God is always there for me, I'll definitely be fine...<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goofing off with Jeffrey...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah and I...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjIvgN8LAI8rxQTcmJzyRz-4afd1h6Nc1szXUXI-BnV7qkcUKQpQ_hK9q5it5-NSJrGMMkisJhmZ-StWD82mnITeXJBr9j-jVkCAyBQxL0NMlm48310BWyldObmqG2DXjS5OGOtcBoOu0/s1600/IMG_1076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjIvgN8LAI8rxQTcmJzyRz-4afd1h6Nc1szXUXI-BnV7qkcUKQpQ_hK9q5it5-NSJrGMMkisJhmZ-StWD82mnITeXJBr9j-jVkCAyBQxL0NMlm48310BWyldObmqG2DXjS5OGOtcBoOu0/s320/IMG_1076.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Annie and I...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5E6T15enxQ6gFS1owpN_vs0iH6RCBzM7IeszS6cinq0HUc2OFbNJP-06JLJeuYqcUWnz42RO6Inn4abcNnk8SD1rDHwWST9Oj5JBjKUCoqP-EBZc4_hafWWahp7AHDCNbIuUxF0_41pY/s1600/IMG_1115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5E6T15enxQ6gFS1owpN_vs0iH6RCBzM7IeszS6cinq0HUc2OFbNJP-06JLJeuYqcUWnz42RO6Inn4abcNnk8SD1rDHwWST9Oj5JBjKUCoqP-EBZc4_hafWWahp7AHDCNbIuUxF0_41pY/s320/IMG_1115.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faustina, Annie, Elaine, Kah Yenn, Bellina and Ivan (the new couple)</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bellina, Ivan and Stephen during their birthday BBQ...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I always find myself dream about things that will never happen... What if my crush likes me back? Would I be able to accept it? What if my friends really forget about me? What if they stab me from the back when I need them? What if I were to be alone for the rest of my life? Is that my fate? Sometimes I dream that I have someone that I can go to if my family were to be far away like now... Someone who cares about me deeply and is always there for me no matter what... But that is just a dream.... A hope that may or may not come true...<br />
<br />
And I'm actually jealous of those who have that special someone in their lives... I actually grew really jealous recently when my 2 new friends finally declared that they are going out... But, I said to myself, "Don't be jealous.. Be happy for them... Now they don't just have friends to turn to, they have a special someone that they can really rely on.." and after that, I'm not sad anymore... Well, not until now when I'm writing this down...<br />
<br />
I'll definitely miss those faces up there... I know that someday, if God wills it, we will definitely meet again... Till then, it is really nice to have known all of you....<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-85852745908132130682012-06-11T22:51:00.000+12:002012-06-11T22:51:05.716+12:00My Brother and Me - A Short StoryThis entry is totally about my little short story that I wrote for my assignment.... Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<u>MY BROTHER AND ME</u><br />
<br />
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<br />
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<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">My name is Harry. I
have an older brother who’s very special to me. How special? Very special. He’s
a person who really cares about me apart from my parents. If my parents were
gone, he’s the only one I’ve got. And I know I can rely on him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 36pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Every
teacher in my school thinks I’m special. My classmates thought so too; but not
the kids from other classes. Whenever I’m in school, they were always calling
me names. “Freak!” was one of them and that hurt me the most. Did my brother
help me? Of course he did! He just went to them and said, “You guys are the
freaks! He’s better than you lot!” He’s the best. And I’m not special. I’m just
like the others, like everyone else. I’m just short, too short for my age. But
my brother looks at me and said, “They don’t understand yet,” and I love him
for that because he understands me the most.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">At home, my parents treated
me like I was a baby; like I needed their help all the time. I don’t need their
help at all. I know I can manage myself really well. Sometimes, I pity my
brother. He never gets this kind of attention. I feel bad about it. But he just
said, “It’s okay. I’m a big boy. I can handle it.” I told him I don’t want this
kind of attention and he told me that soon it will end. “Just you wait,” he said.
He’s never mad at me. He’s always so kind.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">The worst part is when
we go out for dinner or shopping. We act normal, like nothing’s happening.
Except that I know it’s not normal. Not in the eyes of others. I can see other
children pointing at me and whispering to each other as we walk past. If they
are with their parents, the parents would slap their hands down and pull them
away from my sight. What did my brother do? He walks either in front of me or
behind me. When I asked why, he said that he doesn’t want people to upset me.
“They don’t understand. They don’t know how it really is,” he said. At first I
didn’t understand what he meant, but after a while, I found that what those
children did disturbs me. Just like in school on my first day. But I learned
fast; faster than my classmates! At first I had a teacher-aide in class that
catered to my needs. His name was Mr. Johnson. I found him helpful at the
beginning of my schooling years. But when I reached Year 4, I could do my work
and activities on my own. Mr Johnson stayed for a while, helping me whenever I
asked him to. After a while, my parents saw that I didn’t need him anymore and
so did my teacher. I felt a bit sad when Mr. Johnson left, but I know that it
means I get to do more stuff than I used to and that gets me excited!</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">At the end of my
primary school, I felt more confident because I knew I was capable of the
school works. I even gained a lot of new friends from other classes. My brother
was right: they didn’t understand back then. But high school brings more
challenges because we had to move. And everything seemed to repeat itself. The
bullying, the isolation, and they all made me feel left out; made me feel
different. My brother went to school with me and he was protective of me. One
time, he punched his classmate Jory for calling me “freak” and pushing me to
the ground. They both were sent to the principal’s office. Mom and dad came as
well. I told Mr. Carson my brother’s not to be blamed; Jory is the one who
started it. Mom and dad told me to stay out of it. I found it unfair because I
didn’t get a chance to say anything and tell the truth. My brother was grounded
for his actions. I felt sorry for him. I told him I’m sorry that because of me,
he was grounded. But he just smiled and said, “Don’t feel bad. I’m only
protecting you.”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">My brother took me to
the premiere of “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian” one day. There was a
dwarf character in the mo<a href="" name="_GoBack"></a>vie. I asked my brother if he’s
really that small and he said yes. I told him it would be great to meet the
actor. So, he went to the security person and asked if we could meet the actor.
By some bizarre luck, we got the chance to meet him! His name is Peter
Dinklage. I asked him how is it that he gets to be an actor and whether people
judged him for his shortness. He looked at me and said, “It doesn’t matter if
you’re big or small. If you believe you can do it, you can and you will do it.
Just work hard on what you really want to achieve and it will come true. That’s
what I did. I paid attention in school, studied hard and went to drama school
because I wanted to be an actor. And look, I am one now.” After that, he just
smiled and hugged me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">I know I can achieve
big things like Mr. Dinklage. I definitely know that no matter who we are, we
can be successful if we work hard for it. We can’t expect the world to adapt to
us, we need to adapt to it.</span></div>Are-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-2174809685809272202012-04-16T20:29:00.001+12:002012-04-16T20:29:46.367+12:00A Simple Smile Can Brighten Someone&apos;s Day...As simple as that, a lot of people need to smile... MORE!<br />
<br />
I was walking around town this afternoon and what I see is a lot of faces... STRESSED FACES... So, what I always do is whenever someone looked at me (whether I know them or not), I always smile at them to show that there's nothing to worry about, that everything is going to be just fine.. I don't mind if they don't smile back, I just want them to know that someone cares..<br />
<br />
However, as much as I try to brighten people's day, there are a lot if people who are total arseholes.. I mean, if for obvious reasons that you know me, do smile back or at least say 'Hi'.. But, instead, they just walk past me as if I don't exist..<br />
<br />
Take this example: I was walking by Union Lawn when I saw a girl wearing the OMSA T-shirt.. So, I smiled at her because I know she is a member of the association.. But instead of smiling back, she just walk away like that didn't happen at all... What's wrong with smiling? It's not a disease.. It's a gift from God...<br />
<br />
So to all of you dear readers, whenever someone is looking at you, just smile at them and show them that everything's going to be okay... Who knows, maybe God will give you something in return.. :)<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-46102627908226364962012-04-16T01:14:00.001+12:002012-04-16T01:14:43.039+12:00The Post from Bed...Just a short post from my bed... Life so far has been amazing... Made new friends, learned new things, and best of all, did amazing things!<br />
<br />
I went to Christchurch again this Easter... And the trip turned out great! I can't recall back the last time I had so much fun (apart from being with my family, that is) and I've learned a few things about life as well as myself... ^^<br />
<br />
Assignments are, as always, a pain in the arse.. But, that's student life! Without them, we would be very lazy to even go to class... Hehe..<br />
<br />
Well, time for me to sleep... A new day tomorrow... ^^<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-79784027949472382992012-03-19T22:44:00.000+13:002012-03-19T22:44:54.608+13:00No Video Blogging for Me... And the rest of this sh*t...Sorry for the title... It's just what I think about video blogging..
Not that it sucks; it's just too hard for an amateur like me in video
editing... Just too damn hard...<br />
<br />
<br />
But, let me just recap back what has been happening because it has been a while since the last time I updated on this blog...<br />
<br />
<br />
First off, I went back to Malaysia for the summer... Can't help
it because my mother insisted that I go back... So, there I was in a
very packed flight back to Malaysia... The best part? Not much has
changed since I left! The weird thing is just that the environment is
different and looking back, I now miss home even more than I did when I
first came to New Zealand...<br />
<br />
<br />
Secondly, my parents came over and visited me last year in
December (this was before I went back)... And the trip turned out
magnificent! My parents, of course, complained about the cold (come on,
it's freaking Dunedin... Of course it's cold!) and they kinda groaned
sometimes... But, they had a lot of fun and so did I! We visited
Christchurch looking at the aftermath (my mother was literally
surprised) and after that, we looked at the penguins... Too bad they
can't stay long because my parents were only here for like a week so,
there aren't many places that we can visit...<br />
<br />
<br />
Next off, I moved flat! Haha... This was the best part of this
new year! Apart from new and harder things to learn, I also get a new
environment to live in... Not that there's a huge change, just the
location (which is closer to my campus) and also the number of flatmates
(from 5 flatmates to 1!)...<br />
<br />
<br />
Anyway, third year degree is finally here and now I can't wait to
finish and go back! It's a little contrasting to what my seniors have
felt when they were about to leave New Zealand... Most of them said that
they wished they could stay another year... But for me, even though 2
years is not long, it is enough to actually expose us to a very new and
amazing culture that is not in our country... After all, the best part
of living overseas is not the freedom to do whatever we want, it's
trying those little things that is not available in our own country...
Which is why most tourists enjoy visiting Malaysia because it is hard to
find such vibrant cultures and variety of food in their own country...<br />
<br />
<br />
Till the next post!<br />
<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz Khairuddin<br />
<br />
<br />
P/S: Sorry if I ramble a little too much... I tend to do that.. :D<br />Are-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-72301751909914732732011-10-02T23:42:00.000+13:002011-10-02T23:42:29.998+13:00Vlog = PAIN IN THE ARSE... Literally...Hmm... I don't actually know what to say... Been trying to make a video myself but, it's rather hard...<br />
<br />
Now, I totally SALUTE Charlie McDonnell, Anwar Hadi, etc. for their epic videos... Wish I can be as creative as them.. >.<<br />
<br />
Will definitely upload the video I've been trying to make... Just, not this week... Maybe sometime this weekend or next week...<br />
<br />
Exams are coming up... First day = 19th October... Real bummer for me there...<br />
<br />
Anyway, wishing you all a good day!<br />
<br />Enjoy the weekend while it lasts!<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-61650596440997694162011-09-26T12:27:00.002+13:002011-09-26T12:27:52.686+13:00Lunch Break Ramblings...Right.. This'll be a quick update.. Not so much as saying a lot since not much happened yet...<br />
<br />
First off, the video that I promised might be coming out a bit late as I'm quite busy with assignments and stuff... And I mean STUFF.. hahaha... So, will update again on that sometime next week..<br />
<br />
Second, my last minute decision last Saturday TOTALLY PAID OFF! I actually watched my first LIVE rugby match at Forsyth barr stadium that night and IT WAS AWESOME!! I'm so in love with rugby now!<br />
<br />
And, as always... My pathetic way of ending the blog... Urmm... Until next time? XD<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-32326792368134823082011-09-22T23:39:00.000+12:002011-09-22T23:39:12.529+12:00Video Blogging?I'm currently thinking of video blogging - like the ones of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/IniAnwarHadi">IniAnwarHadi</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/charlieissocoollike">charlieissocoollike</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/michaelaranda">arandavision</a>, etc...<br />
<br />
It would actually be very, very, VERY HARD... Especially on the "what to say" part...<br />
<br />
It would actually be really interesting, though.. But then again, it would actually be really hard..<br />
<br />
But, just trying my little not-my-best luck, I'll post one particular video that I actually recorded celebrating one of my friend's birthday here at my house...<br />
<br />
So, wait for it as it might come out sometime next week... I'l definitely post it here on the blog as well as my Facebook account and YouTube... Just for fun, really..<br />
<br />
Oh, and speaking of Facebook, I actually feel like I have 2 Twitter accounts now thanks to the new layout of Facebook... Some find sucks, some find it quite interesting, some love it, some hate it, but I just felt neutral about it... I mean, not much change there so.... Yeah...<br />
<br />
Bye for now!<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-13810316567096688992011-09-20T21:56:00.000+12:002011-09-20T21:56:10.287+12:00Changes in My Life... That I Have NoticedIt's rather hard to actually tell if someone has changed or not, particularly yourself.<br />
I find this particularly awkward, especially if you were thinking to yourself about how long has it been and how you didn't actually notice it.<br />
<br />
As you all well know, I'm in New Zealand and currently studying in my 2nd year degree in Bachelor of Education (TESOL) over at the University of Otago and I have to say; living abroad actually changes you DRASTICALLY.<br />
<br />
For some reason (or, maybe it's the BBC shows), I've been speaking in a more British accent than I was before I come to New Zealand. I didn't actually noticed this before until just now in my tutorial session this afternoon. I had a small and interesting discussion about the behaviour models that we would actually try to bring in to our teaching once we graduate and apparently, I was the only Malaysian in the small group of 5 (the others were all Kiwis). It was then that I actually noticed these particular small things:<br />
<br />
1) I've lost my "lah" and "lor" in my daily speech (except when I'm speaking with Malaysians)<br />
2) My pronunciation has improved over the couple of months that I've studied here.<br />
3) I find it easy to understand the Kiwi accent ever since the first time I arrived here.<br />
4) I've been speaking English more fluently than I did back in Malaysia.<br />
<br />
Is it just me or am I becoming more and more English?<br />
<br />
Some hints were given to me through several people that I actually met last week:<br />
1) A guy at the Human Nutrition Department when I went for my blood test last week<br />
2) A Maori woman that I met during the blood test.<br />
3) The nurse who actually drew my blood that day.<br />
4) A cashier at a local shop.<br />
5) One of the lecturers at College of Education.<br />
<br />
I've also noticed some other things about me that has changed:<br />
1) I've stopped downloading TV series since I came here on February.<br />
2) I've been a little bit spend-thrift on other things as well as books.<br />
3) I've grown to love shoes.<br />
4) I have a habit of doing random stuff alone (like going to the movies).<br />
<br />
And some other things that I would KILL MYSELF if I mention them here.. TEE HEE!<br />
<br />
I guess what I'm trying to say is that changes happen, even if we don't actually notice it.. Especially when you are living with people that are foreign to you...<br />
<br />
Till then, CHEERS!<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-85231327882180881012011-09-17T01:20:00.000+12:002011-09-17T01:20:31.305+12:00Spring CleaningWow! So busy with assignments and stuff made me forget about my blog! Hahaha~~<br />
<br />
Then again, we all have our lives to take care of. And when I say this, I know that Not many people actually READ my blog.. <strike>Thanks to my non-stop ranting about SH*T that I think most of you find annoying...</strike><br />
<br />
Anyway, my point in posting this particular update is to actually keep you guys up-to-date with what's been going on around me.. Hahaha~~<br />
<br />
1) New Season of the Year...<br />
Yeah, spring is here (hence, the title.. DUH).. But, surprisingly, the weather is still cold as winter... Which sometimes makes me confused whether it is already spring or still winter... Anyhow, daylight saving in New Zealand will commence on the 25th September at exactly 1:59 am.. Once the clock strikes 2:00 am, we have to add another hour. So, instead of the clock striking 2, it will strike 3.. Which means MORE DAYLIGHT... And it struck me right through the heart when I notice that prayer times are changing almost DRASTICALLY... Not that I've never experienced it before, it's just that it still shocks me.. But the most exciting part of this is THE FLOWERS! Too bad I can't actually post them yet since I haven't transferred them from my iPod yet... But I will definitely put them up here.. Especially when the actual spring comes with flowers blooming EVERYWHERE~~<br />
<br />
2) Rugby World Cup 2011<br />
Yeah.. As most of you should know, the Rugby World Cup is held in New Zealand this year... I, for one, have never been a sports fan.. Especially one as aggressive as rugby.. But, after watching the match between England and Argentina, I FELL IN LOVE WITH IT! And earlier (before I post this), I watched the game between New Zealand and Japan.. Yeah, as aggressive as the All Blacks, I watched it with passion! Even though I didn't understand the rules... hahaha~~ *yeah, I'm THAT pathetic*<br />
<br />
3) House Problems..<br />
This is where it actually get a little bit serious... Before I go on, I hope that everyone know that this is not just concerning me but everyone as well. Because I know I'm actually speaking on other people's behalf as well. I, for one, am not a fan of smokers. But, hey, CAN'T AVOID THAT, right? So, I won't be ranting about this since I already did that and THAT DIDN'T GO WELL..<br />
I just want to say that when it comes to sharing a house, one must be aware that sharing a house means LIVING TOGETHER IN A HOUSE. I mean, we wouldn't call each other HOUSEMATES if we are not living together, right? There are boundaries to what we do in the house and whatever we do, it actually concerns our housemates as well because if anything happens, you are not the only one to be blamed. The whole house gets the blame. And also, there are certain needs that each of the members would want to be fulfilled. So, if you are mad about something that the others are doing in the house, don't go about saying F*CK or SH*T and just shout.. Think first. Reflect.. Say to yourself "Did I do this as well?" Just because you didn't get to get a warm shower or have to pay the electric bill that is a <strike>wee</strike> little bit too expensive, doesn't mean that you have to blame the others. Be fair. You get angry when didn't get to have a nice, warm shower in the morning but you yourself takes a really WARM shower that makes the house STEAMS UP? You say that you didn't use THAT much electricity but you are using heaters to warm up your bedroom and the electric stove when you cook? You always ask people to actually tidy up after cooking or eating, but you yourself are too lazy to actually do the dishes, even after a duty roster is put up and you actually AGREED to it?<br />
Just remember, when you get angry about something that YOU YOURSELF ARE DOING ALMOST EVERY SINGLE DAY, others are actually mad at you too for NOT REALIZING THAT. This does not just go to everyone, but to myself as well.. I'm just reflecting back on what's been happening and what I have heard from others...<br />
<br />
So, remember.. Be respectful of others, and you'll get that respect back...<br />
<br />
With all due respect,<br />
Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-58457247424444485362011-08-25T21:22:00.002+12:002011-08-25T21:35:42.614+12:00Been A While, I'm Still Here, As Lonely As Ever...Hahaha... Yeah, title's a bit off, isn't it? But then, I wonder why I always feel this way..
<br />
<br />Not to mention I have a lot of friends *really?* and they seem to come and go...
<br />
<br />Still, in the middle of all these WTH stuff, there's a small silver lining.. And this is the part where I don't think you would want to read...
<br />
<br />1) Newspaper...
<br />Ha, for the 2nd time ever (yeah, 2ND), MY FACE WAS IN THE NEWSPAPER!! Hahaha!! *bragging much?*
<br />This is because I actually sent a picture for this Salam Perantauan that Malaysian newspapers always have annually for people like me who are living/studying abroad to have an opportunity to send their love foe ALL THE WORLD TO SEE (well, just Malaysians, really).
<br />
<br />And, luckily, my picture got in this year! Hehehe.. And my family, as proud as ever, took a pic and posted it on Facebook.. :p (click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150293063734511&set=t.1137377464&type=1">here</a> to see it)
<br />
<br />2) Raya Parcel...
<br />Now this is the one thing that I can't brag about (apart from the one on top)... My mom sent me a parcel full of Raya goodies and it arrived earlier this week. I was, as always, happy with whatever my mom sent me... Makes me miss her even more... :(
<br />
<br />3) Assignments During the Holidays...
<br />Yeah, this is the part that actually bums me out (or rather, makes me fell a lil' bit happy).. Holidays are created for people to have a rest from their work/student life... And yet, for me (as well as my seniors and my fellow cohort mates), we have assignments that due exactly after the holidays... So, whether we like it or not, we have to do it.. But, hey! I'd rather have something to do during the holidays than just sit and Facebooking all day... LAME!
<br />
<br />4) Raya in the Holidays...
<br />Yeah, I think I can say that I'm quite lucky to be celebrating Raya during the holidays because from what I've heard, some people have experienced celebrating Raya while attending lectures and tutorials!! I can totally imagine myself wearing full Baju Melayu, going to class... Hehehehe... People will definitely turn their heads and give me THE WHAT-THE-HECK-ARE-YOU-WEARING LOOK.. Hahahaha... *proud of my culture*
<br />
<br />Anyway, don't want to be talking nonsense too much.. Some people might find it BORING to even read my blog, not to mention LISTEN TO ME TALKING... *yeah, I annoy people easily*
<br />
<br />Till the next post!
<br />
<br />With all due respect,
<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-61245775734584815172011-06-07T20:04:00.018+12:002011-06-07T22:44:05.535+12:00The Post of Laziness~~When it comes to Facebook, I'll definitely be one of those who LOG IN EVERY SINGLE DAY! But when it comes to blogging, I SUCK! Why? Coz I can easily forget that I even had not one, but TWO BLOGS!<br /><br />Yeah, you read right.. I have two of them.. One is this, the other is for my so-called short novel (which is still not finished). Want to read it? Click <a href="http://lancelotgobbo.blogspot.com">here</a>..<br /><br />So, here I am, babbling again doing God-knows-what... haha.. Anyway, I actually said that I would update more on my trip that I went to during Easter break. Well, here goes..<br /><br />1) Dunedin-Christchurch<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4Efuzp_QUSLoWY-CyP3m67UMqGe1EgnJ_rmwohbGeM0TocUTMoOUrCjrsvhuNIKhazYWMZTgdIjXzC8iC9vS-2odmuyexYWEjPchvCqnk6eoMtBltWMcpf_8sby0od-FlJkBmet045g/s1600/P4222606.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4Efuzp_QUSLoWY-CyP3m67UMqGe1EgnJ_rmwohbGeM0TocUTMoOUrCjrsvhuNIKhazYWMZTgdIjXzC8iC9vS-2odmuyexYWEjPchvCqnk6eoMtBltWMcpf_8sby0od-FlJkBmet045g/s320/P4222606.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615412162914019186" /></a><br /><br />I'm not exactly sure how to put this in words, but the view was SPECTACULAR! Especially when I went to the Moeraki Boulders and Oamaru... hmm.. I can't even describe it in words... You really have to come and see it on your own!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgudw0HrrbteyMOs-EVqsg3_GXG6OTpxT7icVLQY4O6M2CMe5MIsM5BXZABaNLVCdDQUVLQxz220w5g-alnNsz1ps4do5byz88a24UJKXsjxjjfSOjdYlyuYGrv-tRrGhip5sWK_qMyg4o/s1600/P4222682.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgudw0HrrbteyMOs-EVqsg3_GXG6OTpxT7icVLQY4O6M2CMe5MIsM5BXZABaNLVCdDQUVLQxz220w5g-alnNsz1ps4do5byz88a24UJKXsjxjjfSOjdYlyuYGrv-tRrGhip5sWK_qMyg4o/s320/P4222682.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615415024990368514" /></a><br /><br />2) Christchurch<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0NeMbZXqUv1zuh8N8a54KRIupD5wSgBNdqpgyTrbIMXjVxhyphenhyphen_k6Wy8Uz0FqmAAKCeqyrgjlTcnCYs5raHJQe1Ga0_HT11ZG-luCXNelZJscqs7shU1WdcfEhGRfXs8eehdLXNGr73-Vo/s1600/P4233023.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0NeMbZXqUv1zuh8N8a54KRIupD5wSgBNdqpgyTrbIMXjVxhyphenhyphen_k6Wy8Uz0FqmAAKCeqyrgjlTcnCYs5raHJQe1Ga0_HT11ZG-luCXNelZJscqs7shU1WdcfEhGRfXs8eehdLXNGr73-Vo/s320/P4233023.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615417537873466642" /></a><br /><br />The aftermath really made me silent for almost the whole day. Seeing all the rubble and cracked roads and buildings made me realize that it could have happened at Dunedin where I was.. Made me cry that night on my way to Wellington...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6YJ5CjMVRv1cIbSBl9e-rEEOkjv733s9l279nOw0Mu1Wy7vfqWn6C7x_Tajo0TS0mR4PNqjuOvvhwm2lGxkRhjGYevXQcFpicfSh5mof1EB4_ZE8MME0hgOb4YekAdoVfOZEMelQ1aM/s1600/P4233025.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6YJ5CjMVRv1cIbSBl9e-rEEOkjv733s9l279nOw0Mu1Wy7vfqWn6C7x_Tajo0TS0mR4PNqjuOvvhwm2lGxkRhjGYevXQcFpicfSh5mof1EB4_ZE8MME0hgOb4YekAdoVfOZEMelQ1aM/s320/P4233025.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615418152036473202" /></a><br /><br />3) Wellington (Welly)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb48rob3ztTpYEfSHqN1YHECdE6uJlgS9x8M0WVjZjQmWY_YkLjhTfsj_VYspQyspOZx9hhCO0vHwBiyZ_GiAKE5SEKK9q7H-FlwZ4YcRnEBtM2LRGn5kW44ScCaZfjKVDhnxuwIe6wR8/s1600/P4243090.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb48rob3ztTpYEfSHqN1YHECdE6uJlgS9x8M0WVjZjQmWY_YkLjhTfsj_VYspQyspOZx9hhCO0vHwBiyZ_GiAKE5SEKK9q7H-FlwZ4YcRnEBtM2LRGn5kW44ScCaZfjKVDhnxuwIe6wR8/s320/P4243090.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615418887930824354" /></a><br /><br />Now this is where the fun starts, I guess.. Met some more new people and also a fellow TESLian friend in VUW! hehehe... Also, went to some interesting places around Wellington (although not very much to see). Rented a car and drove to our next destination in the evening..<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETXuG7SFvxt6tAMEEVl_OF17NVmmRZa2301fhZpEoVOO6d0OQNoLQhndev9omgJAVFjLIdqwJ-g9Y3oYxV9GbmMIxiwhI484RBDLYG9KTZxFsj3uG9rJZG2V_7vQhgNntOuA_YHWmL_Y/s1600/P4243153.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETXuG7SFvxt6tAMEEVl_OF17NVmmRZa2301fhZpEoVOO6d0OQNoLQhndev9omgJAVFjLIdqwJ-g9Y3oYxV9GbmMIxiwhI484RBDLYG9KTZxFsj3uG9rJZG2V_7vQhgNntOuA_YHWmL_Y/s320/P4243153.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615419440422920578" /></a><br /><br />4) Palmerston North (Palmy)<br />Second destination in North Island... Had fun at the wind farm, looking at the wind turbines... They are so big, I was afraid they might fall and crack me head open! haha.. Anyway, it was raining so we didn't get much photographs... Onto the next destination!<br /><br />5) Taupo & Rotorua<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbEnPjQLjgEQYqZhYRJAkgycVi8rXNj3bWsMzcnWC3VijYam5mkBCTgizKmLtaGY5ArSMdq5zEPiS7RgzCYUwGqF8u10lkt0mXCgnc5-p4YHeio3NVBqQ0UCB7byf3bKn-6_5LRbkZRUM/s1600/P4253169.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbEnPjQLjgEQYqZhYRJAkgycVi8rXNj3bWsMzcnWC3VijYam5mkBCTgizKmLtaGY5ArSMdq5zEPiS7RgzCYUwGqF8u10lkt0mXCgnc5-p4YHeio3NVBqQ0UCB7byf3bKn-6_5LRbkZRUM/s320/P4253169.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615422483252162770" /></a><br /><br />Went to see one of the biggest lakes ever! Also went to Huka Falls which was SO AMAZING!!! Won't say much about this, though... Except for Rotorua... We had fun riding the Luge!!! EVEN IN THE RAIN!!! hahahaha~~ We were so crazy that time, we didn't care about the rain! LOL<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuqiHrXK7fFPBqx9ejQ2i4pgeVdxbZgwDH9rde2jIB6K8QYRdukKEwn7Eg0B3GKf8OzwfGe4Z4NEJVRW3QqWOPPzkH4KzcmRHC2qtEhvD_S5_Zydh8g3AEvUx2ogpo9jS0K74lCkbl1xA/s1600/P4253241.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuqiHrXK7fFPBqx9ejQ2i4pgeVdxbZgwDH9rde2jIB6K8QYRdukKEwn7Eg0B3GKf8OzwfGe4Z4NEJVRW3QqWOPPzkH4KzcmRHC2qtEhvD_S5_Zydh8g3AEvUx2ogpo9jS0K74lCkbl1xA/s320/P4253241.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615423702825475522" /></a><br /><br />6) Napier, Hastings, Welly, Christchurch<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_vMkYx8IHu_IjzSsI7qSM-uTso-oX3ledunifr7D0yBmu9rgo49e-1Ibe4gk5pwYbVmqFFTRg3mCDSTR74WyDo2AW5eQeXJHXRB2MtsOpQ9lD9Sc0I2-ruMmnfEdtahL62QPIJFAGbs/s1600/P4273260.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_vMkYx8IHu_IjzSsI7qSM-uTso-oX3ledunifr7D0yBmu9rgo49e-1Ibe4gk5pwYbVmqFFTRg3mCDSTR74WyDo2AW5eQeXJHXRB2MtsOpQ9lD9Sc0I2-ruMmnfEdtahL62QPIJFAGbs/s320/P4273260.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615425618414598050" /></a><br /><br />This is, by far one of the longest trips I've ever had. In one day, I travelled from Napier all the way to Christchurch non-stop! The only stop we had was waiting for our flight which was delayed for like 3 hours! Anyway, we had fun flying back to Christchurch and thank God, we safely arrived because Taupo blacked out the night before due to harsh winds and storm.<br /><br />7) Christchurch-Dunedin<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9pCjvHaZzrJ79hn1XfixNZHKJe_G3T0KDBBT245J0yL1AircSFytoPwOkVmWEl7A7cCsmEonnpYbSFZEAJiFGbNNrrLEDq8BTUkTJqVo054muSrmiTrfpqRWrIJGKBW2AzCEwdkzz5c/s1600/P4283297.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9pCjvHaZzrJ79hn1XfixNZHKJe_G3T0KDBBT245J0yL1AircSFytoPwOkVmWEl7A7cCsmEonnpYbSFZEAJiFGbNNrrLEDq8BTUkTJqVo054muSrmiTrfpqRWrIJGKBW2AzCEwdkzz5c/s320/P4283297.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615426210682338594" /></a><br /><br />The route back is pretty much the same but we stopped by Timaru. We didn't went through Timaru when we were heading for Christchurch. It was a very nice trip!<br /><br />Well, enough said... Pictures are as you can see above.. Sorry there's not much! Exam's coming on Monday so WISH ME LUCK!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTuk5ihREKbbI5OopJh-iFaJ2ScLOcShRTCds2zO4YvrFqhqcm03HmPVUXxkGj92CF8sg1jqoRrzlq0EbtZ5iQLigd2L-pP27w7KWZQd1r_WHjPjYWZLVRYtj0shsVTKLvydiMuzSlro/s1600/P4283331.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTuk5ihREKbbI5OopJh-iFaJ2ScLOcShRTCds2zO4YvrFqhqcm03HmPVUXxkGj92CF8sg1jqoRrzlq0EbtZ5iQLigd2L-pP27w7KWZQd1r_WHjPjYWZLVRYtj0shsVTKLvydiMuzSlro/s320/P4283331.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615426593146061730" /></a><br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-20708878051467711552011-05-28T22:56:00.005+12:002011-05-28T23:09:06.606+12:00Pictures (and some texts)...KIA ORA!! That's how we Kiwis greet people.. hehe~~<br /><br />Yeah, I've promised that I'll put up some pics here, right? Well, here goes!<br /><br /><br />First off, my university...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dR8PYBIKpLW08fz8hRO7l14DB4ojkddtEQnvo9WgcXMAy-oxvuH4pu_ILt__qX5kH9Ra7l17tofWKLbJ6WhT0PzzjvS3qG93vPErkrlTl583hRd84gHsrQn5wZbWnBioAINXQ-HQFNM/s1600/P2140928.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dR8PYBIKpLW08fz8hRO7l14DB4ojkddtEQnvo9WgcXMAy-oxvuH4pu_ILt__qX5kH9Ra7l17tofWKLbJ6WhT0PzzjvS3qG93vPErkrlTl583hRd84gHsrQn5wZbWnBioAINXQ-HQFNM/s320/P2140928.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611721038707870802" /></a><br /><br />Yeah... Although this is not a recent picture (it was taken about two months ago), still it's worth it.. I mean, you guys can see it right? heheh..<br /><br />Next up, my house!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtp9kZVDHUt-1FOlG0V__UwHm5qm2A4QUEbCTuTE6cW0FCXNGldqrGUrQGvgtN52Bml09yOut_nd4wRNCiGMQsaDiepm_gb8m2au2RY2lULZLUG5UiRtUa7_dsS_ClxU72UWtlyx9u7g/s1600/P2140950.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtp9kZVDHUt-1FOlG0V__UwHm5qm2A4QUEbCTuTE6cW0FCXNGldqrGUrQGvgtN52Bml09yOut_nd4wRNCiGMQsaDiepm_gb8m2au2RY2lULZLUG5UiRtUa7_dsS_ClxU72UWtlyx9u7g/s320/P2140950.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611721847546590146" /></a><br /><br />Mine's on the left... And as you can see, very old-fashion right? But, the inside is AWESOME!! hahaha...<br /><br />Anyway, can't post too many pictures... Will post up again next week, especially on my trips!<br /><br />Till then,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-14604726324845488252011-04-16T08:31:00.000+12:002011-04-16T08:46:31.135+12:00Life so Far - Farm Trip, Assignments, Dunedin...Hurmm... It's been quite a while since the last time I updated, isn't it? Well, I have my own reasons to not update.. One being too much assignments and limited internet connection (yes, LIMITED). Anyway, here's a little update of my life from my last update...<br /><br />1) Classes<br />Adoi... Classes are, to be honest, FUN! I can't really believe it that I would enjoy the classes here as much as I enjoy my classes back in Batu Lintang (not being sarcastic here, OK!). And here, only the tutorials are compulsory since we need 80% of attendance in order to pass in the paper... So, lectures, we can skip them if we want to.. But so far, I've never skipped any lectures (YAY!).. I enjoy all of the classes, especially Drama and Intro to Arts & Science... Lecturers are SUPER COOL! We don't even refer to them like we usually refer our lecturers back in Malaysia.. We only call them by their first names (like Jeff, Steven, Sharon, etc.). How cool is that! hehe~~<br /><br />2) Assignments<br />Hmm... This is the part where I might ramble non-stop about how hard it is being a TESOL student.. One MAJOR reason why I say this is because we rarely had tests.. JUST ASSIGNMENTS... Even our final exams at the end of the semester consists of no more than at least 3 papers... Like this semester, I only have 1 final exam... ONE.. FINAL.. EXAM... The rest? Solely dependent on the assignments (except for EDCR131 & EDCR132, from what I remember, we have an exam for those papers at the end of 2nd semester)... So, yeah.. Life as a future English teacher is pretty much stressful... TESOLians, do you agree with me? ^__^<br /><br />3) Farm Trip<br />Haha! Amidst the stress and assignments and classes and crying (yes, I cried recently...), I actually went to a farm trip! We did a lot of stuff like de-lice the sheep, guard the sheep, look for wild deers, and feed the cows! Hehe.. Such fun we had! Hah.. Oh, another major news that you guys need to know about me is that I've been appointed as the Activities Officer II for OMSA (Otago Malaysian Students Association)! *ehem2* I'm so proud of myself! (haha)<br /><br />Well, basically that's the update so far.. Tonight, I'll be attending the OUSA International Ball at Victoria Hotel.. Hmm.. Wonder how ball looks like.. hehe~~<br /><br />Till the next time!<br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-36079771612626399342011-03-10T21:41:00.004+13:002011-03-10T21:52:41.196+13:00Life in NZ...Hah! Been a while, isn't it? Well, truth be told, I'm still getting used to the life here in New Zealand (for those of you who doesn't know, I flew here on 10th February).<br /><br />Summer's almost over (boo-hoo, right?) but classes have begun (WTF?!?!?) and honestly, I'm enjoying the classes!<br /><br />NO, REALLY! I ENJOY THEM! Why you ask? Haha.. The first two weeks (no, three weeks) here were BORING... Even with the bus trip around Dunedin and the train trip to Middlemarch were not that tempting anymore... (Pictures, click <a href="http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2101328&id=1137377464&l=2e2ac1d59b">HERE</a> for bus trip and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2102837&id=1137377464&l=6915e17ab8">HERE</a> for train trip)<br /><br />Well, life here couldn't be any simpler... Thanks to my experiences (ehem!) living with my parents in Paris, I'm used to living overseas, or more importantly, living in a foreign country... But, as always, the trickiest part is helping others to cope and get used to the environment of drunk people, early sunrises and late sunsets (this is summer, NOT winter) and getting used to the prayer times..<br /><br />Oh, speaking of prayer times... There's a mosque here in Dunedin! Well, it's not that big, but still, it can host up to a few hundred people at a time (pretty darn good for Friday prayers).. Apart from that, shopping malls and supermarkets are all in the walking distance..<br /><br />Anyway, won't ramble much.. I will definitely post something again next week, showing you guys pictures instead of me rambling on and on.. haha..<br /><br />Till the next post!<br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-69638835303932613262011-01-29T04:48:00.004+13:002011-01-29T05:23:40.496+13:00New Zealand: The Preparation, The Excitement, The Boredom...Haha... Most of you might be surprised at the last word on the title, right? I mean, who would be bored if they get the opportunity to go to a country they've never been to before? Well, I shall start from the beginning...<br /><br />The Preparation...<br />I guess all I can actually say about this is that I'm only prepared MENTALLY... Because believe me, with the date drawing nearer and nearer, who won't be prepared??<br /><br />Even with my mom yelling, "You're acting like you don't want to go... Don't you want to?", I'm still not fully prepared yet... Why, you ask? Well, let's see...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RHDskGsoUbymR9sOIknwPme50LDaoAo3ygzNOPtCfOKECrRpv-3nEXtdfZiVIhUKz5cx9a-_PkzCiNOB63vVOj6HPPDhboOzi7QGDVKOg3fU4g5GT8dBJvqvWEI_b_4EpaLwqzQWgVY/s1600/P1260531.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RHDskGsoUbymR9sOIknwPme50LDaoAo3ygzNOPtCfOKECrRpv-3nEXtdfZiVIhUKz5cx9a-_PkzCiNOB63vVOj6HPPDhboOzi7QGDVKOg3fU4g5GT8dBJvqvWEI_b_4EpaLwqzQWgVY/s320/P1260531.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567267236066613202" /></a><br /><br />Let's just say I haven't exactly done anything yet... I mean, look at the picture! Haha.. The only things that I've prepared are shoes, gloves, hat, scarfs and winter coats... And those doesn't actually cover EVERYTHING yet...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVz_nULnOM7cv79GKMDxIJ7_srYWKo8H6atv1664bUVBIinAl_-CM_jCgB_0lGmXsq9nr-C0C9bLFWgN6LUrbfpQzo4lUd8rGNxypqsAGvO-z2UQbXf7p1k3aC3ixRINxcNufeM4abilM/s1600/P1280540.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVz_nULnOM7cv79GKMDxIJ7_srYWKo8H6atv1664bUVBIinAl_-CM_jCgB_0lGmXsq9nr-C0C9bLFWgN6LUrbfpQzo4lUd8rGNxypqsAGvO-z2UQbXf7p1k3aC3ixRINxcNufeM4abilM/s320/P1280540.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567271454381430658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDsJRgHNhejEYixT_tVy0FNIzwLz9R0lsM7_6ZI9VRWvZTrIEazmlL_ZOQT48DPUigvuJljGd5TynPf1wzDscmkvi6QiCUjlTqR5wf3ld3fkdsusI6-30Hsa9ZlBWZ4RZV_9MnOusWHXA/s1600/P1280538.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDsJRgHNhejEYixT_tVy0FNIzwLz9R0lsM7_6ZI9VRWvZTrIEazmlL_ZOQT48DPUigvuJljGd5TynPf1wzDscmkvi6QiCUjlTqR5wf3ld3fkdsusI6-30Hsa9ZlBWZ4RZV_9MnOusWHXA/s320/P1280538.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567271448816817890" /></a><br /><br />Those are the only ones I can show 'cause the others are back at our old house in Parit Buntar.. Hehe.. Those shoes were bought in 2008 from what I can remember... They still fit me, same goes with the gloves and hat..<br /><br />The Excitement...<br />Should I lie to you? 'Cause I'm not TOTALLY excited about this.. Because truth be told, I'm kinda nervous.. Especially after I went shopping for dry food to be mailed along with my books to NZ... Everything just seems too real for me.. Not to mention that I'm not going to live there with my mom and dad, but my friends... Hmm... I guess the excitement's not that strong.. Which brings me to the boredom...<br /><br />The Boredom...<br />Hah.. Why I'm bored? I DON'T HAVE MUCH TO DO AT HOME apart from doing the laundry, tidy up the house a bit and catch up with some cleaning in my own room... Should I post a picture of how my bedroom look like? I don't think you would want to see it.. Hahaha~~<br /><br />Anyway, I still am packing and trying to wrap my head around the fact that it is now about a week until departure to NZ... All I can say now is that I can't wait to go back to my dear old house in Parit Buntar... Seeing those familiar faces for the last time before departure... Hmm.. Makes me want to cry out loud...<br /><br />Till the next post!<br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-89892034194635756132011-01-20T04:00:00.002+13:002011-01-20T04:16:24.535+13:002011: The Life So Far...It's been a while since the last time I updated my blog, and truth be told, I don't exactly know what to write here anymore... Words of wisdom? I'm not worthy enough to actually ADVICE someone... haha...<br /><br />Anyway, 2011 has started with a BANG and some HONKS for me, thanks to the fireworks in Lumut and also the harmonious honks of the warships in Naval Base, Lumut.. The celebration was done in a not-so-big-and-grand way at Wisma Samudera... hehe..<br /><br />Oh, what else? Haha.. DRIVING LESSONS! Kinda lame, but yeah. I've just started taking driving lessons... Late, right? My own mistake, really coz I didn't take any driving lessons while waiting for the results of my college applications to come out... haha.. SILLY ME.. :p<br /><br />Hmm... What else? Oh, LOTS AND LOTS OF READING! Which is actually a really good thing because that is a really good and healthy (and I mean 'healthy') way to actually spend your free time... I've finished Breaking Dawn, The 39 Clues #10, Pride & Prejudice, Northern Lights (The Golden Compass) and now I'm reading Chronicles of Nick: Infinity... After this? It's Inkheart Trilogy, which I will bring to New Zealand with me...<br /><br />Also, we had our briefing earlier this week (18 & 19 Jan) and we've been told about our flight details... Wah, 3 more weeks and I'll be flying to New Zealand! AAAARRRGGGHH!!! Can't believe it that we actually flying there EARLY! I kinda expect we are flying on 15th and above coz we are registering on 28th Feb... I mean, why so early??? Hadoi...<br /><br />And truth be told, I'm not actually ready yet to go there... There are still an abundance of things to do here, a lot more people to say goodbye to before I take off... Hmm... Guess time flies really fast, huh?<br /><br />And speaking of time, I better stop here... I don't want to babble a lot about this.. Well, if I didn't update later this month, expect me to update from New Zealand!<br /><br />Till then, have a good day/week/weekend!<br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-34322888102960630292010-12-07T01:00:00.003+13:002010-12-07T01:10:52.286+13:00Holiday Activities...Holidays have arrived once again (even though it has arrived for quite some time already)... Still, I kind of hate it when it comes to holidays. Even though we are with our dear family, the activities that we planned to do will be disturbed or cancelled due to the commitments that our parents have...<br /><br />Take me, for instance. My father's a navy and when it comes to holidays, he'll still be working Mondays to Fridays. So, that leaves me, my mother and my siblings. And my mother is the one kind who hardly takes us to go out just for fun. Only my brother does that, and even that needs him to be 'in the mood' because being in a house with a fast-speed internet connection, he hardly leaves home. We will only go to the Pernama building (inside the base) to play bowling and sometimes to Sitiawan to the cinema. Other than that, home is our lair to actually do almost EVERYTHING.<br /><br />For me, I'll either surf the Internet, or read my novels. And trust me, being in a neighbourhood without ANY CLOSE FRIENDS, one will actually stay in the house unless forced to go out. That's happening to me now... My dear old friends are all in Parit Buntar and Perlis and since I'm in Lumut, I have NO ONE TO GO OUT WITH apart from my siblings..<br /><br />So, a little reminder to my readers, when it comes to holidays, try and spend A LOT OF TIME outdoors... Especially with friends & family...<br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-39661198438919761982010-11-16T05:12:00.003+13:002010-12-07T00:59:58.098+13:00Down Memory Lane...Hmm... Been a while since the last time I updated my blog, isn't it? And to be honest, I can't seem to actually put my fingers on what to write anymore. Not that I don't have any stories to share, it's just that when it comes to writing something for others to actually read, it seems hard to make it interesting.. With few English vocabularies, one can never actually describe with bombastic words (and I know some of you will actually say "No need to be bombastic, just tell how you feel."). Again, this is where I'll go blank.<br /><br />I'm one of those people who never express true feelings to others. Even when I'm having a major problem, I'll always smile and pretend that nothing's wrong (which is hard). And trust me, that's is even harder to do.<br /><br />Earlier today, my friends and I had filled accommodation forms for our studies in University of Otago next year. While filling in those forms, it brings me back to those days when I was in Paris visiting my parents. And now, here I am, looking back on my experiences. Bearing in mind that I am leaving my family soon, it feels a bit sad. Even though I'm used to being apart with my family, this will be the first time that I'm going away while the rest of them stays.<br /><br />Now that I'm looking back, there are two ways to actually do this: from the beginning till now; and from now, and goes back in time until the beginning. And trust me, I can never decide on which way to use. So, I'll use both ways. I'll look back through time by linking the events together, regardless of when it happened.<br /><br />Where shall I start? TESL Gala 2010? That was fun. In fact, it was the BEST night I've ever had in my life! Our theme that time was "True Colours" that makes us show who we really are. And guess what? I dressed as the MAD HATTER! I think most of my friends know how ANNOYING I am now. And hyperactive. I said that I'm always smiling, right? Like there's nothing happening. Well, that's why. I don't want people to know, and I also want others to be happy always. There's a saying, "Every dark cloud has a silver lining." I always hold on to that. Until now. And I also hold on to a quote by Ellen DeGeneres saying "Silence is Golden" which is the exact opposite of who I really am.<br /><br />Which brings me back a little bit to our Biro Tatanegara (BTN) camp that we had last week. We had an activity where we have to write a letter to our parents, telling them what we have always wanted to say. And truth be told, I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY. Because to be honest, being apart from them has taught me how to live on my own.So when the facilitator said that we have to write a letter to our parents, I was dumb-struck. And I actually cried that night. A LOT. Even my friend Shah cried along with me when he saw me crying. Why did I cry? I hardly contact my parents. Even when I do, I won't be able to keep the conversation for a long time. And sometimes, they are busy, being in their profession as a navy and a teacher, they both have their own commitments and jobs. Which leaves me alone and, to me, it feels like I'm actually forgotten.<br /><br />Which brings me to my birthday. This year, for the 3rd time, only a few wished me verbally. My family? Thanks to the technology we have now, only texts are the replacements of their voices singing "Happy Birthday" to me. And that's only my mother and my siblings. Aunts? Uncles? Cousins? No answer to that. What more with Facebook! Wall posts kept coming like a clown car! And there's no way to stop them! Except when the day's over, that is. And that is because I've decided to show my birth date on my profile. What if I didn't? Would they still remember my birthday?<br /><br />When it comes to celebration, this brings me to the most recent gathering that we had (apart from TESL Gala), which is the Hari Raya Gathering. The gathering was held for 2 major reasons: to celebrate Hari Raya, Moon Cake Festival, Gawai Kaamatan and the upcoming Deepavali at the time and also to welcome our beloved TESL babies of the June 2010 intake. And what a blast we had! And I'm so sorry that I can't provide any pictures for this particular post because truth be told, I didn't have the time to actually take pictures. And when it comes to pictures, as always, I won't be in them. Why? That's because I'm the one taking the pictures, and nobody offered to take a picture of me... Sounds sad?<br /><br />Not as sad as missing the opportunities to explore the place that you've been living in for the past two years. I'm not one to actually say bad things about my friends; I love them very much. But when it comes to organizing a visit to a certain interesting place in Sarawak (preferably near to Kuching), no one invited me along. I've never been to Cultural Village Sarawak where all of Sarawak's unique culture are under one roof, I've never been to Serikin which is the place to shop for cheap clothings, and I've never been to Bako National Park where nature is breathtaking. The only places in Kuching that I've been to are The Spring, Boulevard, India Street, Waterfront, Wisma Satok, and not forgetting Wisma Saberkas. Oh, and also Matang Wildlife Centre (thanks to the KPLI January 2009 intake). Other than that? Just Saratok for our Leadership Camp and Miri for our JPP Leadership course. Even that is actually because I was one of the JPP last year.<br /><br />And ever since foundation year, I feel like I'm always remembered when people need my help. And being one of those persons who never say 'no' unless I have other commitments, people seem to be coming to me whenever they need help. Even when it is clear that they have nothing else to do, or they can do it themselves. Why ask for help when you can do it yourself?<br /><br />One of my cohort friends asked me one time, "Why do you always go out with people who are not from your class?" My answer? Simple. "Why didn't they invite me along?" Even when I go out with others, it is because I wanted to go there and going with them gives me the opportunity to actually go there on a transport that is cheap and fast. Why wait for people to invite you when they always forget? And when I say "I've never been there," they would say "Oh, you've missed the chance of a lifetime!" Of course I missed it. NO ONE WANTED TO TAKE ME ALONG!<br /><br />Okay, I've burden you all A LOT with my problems now. Trust me, it was unconsciously done because I just type what's going on in my mind. And trust me, this isn't half of it. There's more to it.<br /><br />So, a quick reminder to everyone who reads my blog, NEVER FORGET YOUR FRIENDS; even if they always forget you.<br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-42852889167888684772010-08-31T22:01:00.002+12:002010-08-31T22:18:05.880+12:00Independence Day, Aidilfitri, Malaysia Day - Where's the Fun?Don't get me wrong, but it's the truth.. At least, for me..<br /><br />Reflecting back to someone's quote on Facebook last night (I won't say who), I think it's true... People nowadays don't really celebrate Independence Day like they used to back then. Independence Day is the most crucial celebration here in our country. It is celebrated by EVERYONE in Malaysia, regardless of race and religion, and yet, very few wants to celebrate it with pride and joy? What's wrong??<br /><br />Okay, out with the Independence Day, in with Aidilfitri... Somehow, I don't find celebrating this particular event as happening as before. Of course the Duit Raya tradition is still being kept alive, but now I don't find this interesting. Money will come and go, as always... And, there's no fun anymore because there's not much to talk about once you visit someone. Awkward silence will come and go.. And it's always like we are waiting for the other party to break the silence... I wonder...<br /><br />Ah, I'm babbling again... Huhu.. Sorry for making you all read this rather depressing entry... Hihihi...<br /><br />Anyway, to all Muslims out there, I wish Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir & Batin... And to all Malaysians, HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!! MERDEKA!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i523.photobucket.com/albums/w353/mezaindotcom/MERDEKA-3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 450px; height: 300px;" src="http://i523.photobucket.com/albums/w353/mezaindotcom/MERDEKA-3.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cikgublog.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/hari-raya-2008.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 450px; height: 315px;" src="http://cikgublog.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/hari-raya-2008.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz KhairuddinAre-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-59265928400204417882010-06-25T03:43:00.007+12:002010-06-25T04:33:32.483+12:00A Tribute to Friends - Part 2<div style="text-align: left;">Hmm... Here's part two... I know that I've promised to write about 4 friends here, but now I can't seem to put my fingers on the other 3, because basically, ALL MY FRIENDS ARE GOOD PEOPLE!</div><div><br /></div><div>Huh, where to start, ek? I wonder...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>1) Zariq</div><div>Well, this particular person is already mentioned in my previous entry... So, what else is there to write??</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>2) Felicity</div><div>Hah! This is the ONE person apart from my lecturers who dares enough to come face-to-face and tell me about my weaknesses. I still remember what she actually told me:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><i>"Hafiz, you shouldn't use your group members to do your job for you.. You must contribute as well."</i></div><div>Well, Felis, thanks to you, I've learnt my lesson! Truth be told, I actually did my work that time (I'm sure you know when) and, I didn't share it because I didn't include examples, which I know Mrs. Lim would be furious at! Huhu.. (Correct my grammar if it's wrong anywhere.. hehehe) Oh, and she's also very good in making sure we are behaving in a very good manner, although some might find it a bit annoying.. Thanks, Felis!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>3) Zai Qurratu 'Ainie</div><div>Hah, this particular sister... I'm not really sure what to talk about this particular person... Apart from being a very good listener and advisor, her special talent is FASHION! Hehe.. Zariq, this doesn't mean I'm not looking up to you! Hehe... She's a person who follows fashion and ALWAYS UP-TO-DATE with it.. She even keeps us up-to-date with fashion! Hehe... Because of her (and Zariq, of course!), I know what to where and HOW to wear those clothes... Hehehe... Oh, did I mention she also provided me with some TV series before? Well, that was before my Internet connection got slow.. Hehehe...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>4) Barbara Jane</div><div>Now, this is a girl that any guy would be lucky to have as a girlfriend... Wanna know why? She's very kind, very attractive, and she's caring! She's always there for me whenever I'm down (it's not just Zariq who really care about my feelings =p) and she's also very helpful.. She's saved my butt a lot of times before... And, she's a very good listener too! She never judge people and she's one who keeps a secret really well.. If I can't tell Zariq about it, Jane is my shoulder to cry on... Jane, thanks for being there for me.. I'll always do the same for you!</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, more to come tomorrow (or some time in the future).. But for now, these four are on my top list as VERY GOOD FRIENDS! Zariq, Felicity, Zai, Jane, I THANK YOU FOR BEING MY FRIEND...</div><div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UnhMOKq3zE6rBBusyatajPl-jShgELy1rQ3NOsMw0PzGI1degt6wdjIXcJcC7_WFmyJUNFrLsk3RDaY6RUrKB5NaS4VZPvcx1-fC78QzRMxPNjhEXblj4tkWvWa_wNqHxxN04wg6erU/s320/8834_1223858873418_1137377464_30732815_397275_n.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486378392087352786" /><div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPx56tqOtOGXFNy7j5XKC0cjC8OL78kas05yeqq2Uy3JNI55qMX8kFDDeZ1QdcpDWF8Fi44a2bPLTMt5EPaIgrO5q0-oy8BdOTz7IrRTHYpb7V8szXzQ4imcGV1XEqqCQP2iRGyCpeiCo/s320/31501_1423121214852_1137377464_31283502_2858956_n.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486375367717760354" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVtCbA-GoZ_r0SfbRwGlbvSAVAW34PhUgY7aoKIxrwpFaLWqZySv9d8Vsre4pnad3qOqkPd1XnOSJ_F9Kro53Gjkex7hAVHV6IIhY-ApLfGdplorG6W6_4Kk4C5-_Oi0gV8aK-PnsP1Q/s320/25764_1295560121059_1592022627_30693670_2558641_n.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486375432380745746" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzsODP4Rc5sRgVuJnRTqLVv1-nwZloEJLcbaPai02QlYeH78Ta0ubwsOB4xPRW-ZXWN70hS_DGFLfGgUGyRZXaY4Dv_LZEKolYE0RH2rsjoSF_YefFd3bXhY_eoqiluCutdAP5RT1nItk/s320/5335_1197681218993_1137377464_30638963_494293_n.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486375421687581666" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirDv1QpXvrJcYPWI75Z_F4Gcp8e_wh668zkvWkm5bhjEbUJjvwnq1HVlid_zQVt2tbzE_pj34v1xm_ZpDri8kocB-zPdlzo-QsJKXSI4G_zyG4E6ytAuOme32TCN4kIZKjzp9wsQsUiEU/s320/5815_1166464038583_1137377464_30524715_57116_n.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486375395794732818" /><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>With all due respect,</div><div>Hafiz Khairuddin</div>Are-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-53042926444518553842010-06-22T04:19:00.003+12:002010-06-22T04:51:33.370+12:00A Tribute to Friends - Part 1<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Well, I've been beaten up thinking of what to write (or blog) about here. Well, truth be told, this holiday has again been one of the most memorable holidays ever. My family and I spent some time together in the past 2 weeks.. Photos will be on my Facebook page. But now, let's focus on the main title of this post..<div><br /></div><div>Why a tribute? Well, since I've been living in Kuching alone for 2 years now, friends are the closest thing I've got to family. I love them very much. But, there are few who made it to my top list. I'll be writing about 4 friends here. So, there'll be 4 parts of this blog. More coming up!</div><div><br /></div><div>Who's on top? Haha.. Jeng jeng jeng!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipjZ1YgzMyhmAYvU0ku2rtB0unhDfIXFeihtVxLg3kKUnGEpdESFNOpTSKCnl9k8-4tlhJ6Df6KJUyPTRt2J29ciZdQgGtXkmbx_Rol1cuHsu7AXzUG9YXzZQTGZwsIe_u4_129xYzrmU/s320/DSC05933.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485267549567410002" /></div><div><br /></div><div>His name's Zariq Farhan... He's from the town of Semenyih, Selangor.. Why is he on top?? There are a few reasons why...</div><div><br /></div><div>1) A Good Friend</div><div>For someone like me, Zariq understands me a lot.. And I mean A LOT! I'm pretty much of a loner back in Kuching, so he always asks me if I want to go out (and usually, I just tag along). Even though he sometimes didn't invite me (and I know for sure why), whenever I need him, he's always ready to help me (if he's not busy, that is).</div><div><br /></div><div>He is a person of great talents & has a very unique attitude and personality. He's very friendly, funny, likes to gossip, and sometimes very spontaneous. For someone like Zariq, he sure knows how to keep secrets.. He even keeps some from me! Haha.. Zariq, you understand me too well!</div><div><br /></div><div>2) A Great Leader</div><div>Now, I can't really brag about this part of Zariq.. Because you have to see it for yourself! When given a task, Zariq always did it in a way that most people doesn't expect him to do. Sometimes, it seems like it is out of his hands! And whenever he needs help, he always gets it easily... Why? Go back to point 1 on the part "very friendly" and you got it! You see, Zariq really knows how to kick start a conversation that would seem never-ending! How do you think he's got a huge number of friends! I don't even know how many he's got! Okay, that's out of the point.. Leader, now that's the point I'm trying to talk about.. Gosh! Anyway, Zariq always lead his group in his own, funny & strict way. He's very serious about his work, very concern about the people in his group. He always ask his group members about the task at hand. And that's why sometimes, his group has the BEST TEAMWORK ever! I'm not kidding! You can ask a lot of people in our campus and they'll tell you the same thing..</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, most of the points I want to talk about are already in the two points above.. So, basically, Zariq is a very nice person, a very good brother, and a great friend to have. Anyway, Zariq, this post is definitely for you.. I can't stop myself from writing more about you, but I know you don't really like babbling or bragging..</div><div><br /></div><div>Zariq, I LOVE YOU TO BITS!</div><div><br /></div><div>With all due respect,</div><div>Hafiz Khairuddin</div>Are-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2263214444927167508.post-17854537218298027462010-05-21T01:06:00.003+12:002010-05-21T01:20:24.984+12:00Why Do People Always Think of Themselves?I don't really want to talk much right here (technically because this is not my computer AND I'm not in the right place and position to say this) but I think it's time that people should realize something.<br /><br />PEOPLE SHOULD REALIZE THAT WE ARE LIVING IN A COMMUNITY WHERE EVERYONE HAS FEELINGS AND RIGHTS<br /><br />Why do I say that? Well, after seeing a few incidents in the past few days (I can't really describe here, though), I must admit that people nowadays are growing more and more selfish by the minute!<br /><br />I mean, seriously, if you are living in a hostel, shouldn't you be aware that there are others who are sharing the space with you? Using the same appliances that are provided there? Is it really THAT HARD to flush the toilet??<br /><br />Is it really THAT HARD to just abide by the rules and regulations? Should we break it just because we always do that when we are home?<br /><br />I can't believe that these people (SO CALLED PEOPLE) are totally ignoring these rule-breakers and just ignore the power that they have JUST BECAUSE THEY ARE DOING THE EXACT SAME THING!<br /><br />Don't ask me why... Just reflect back and think.. What have you done to help or make others happy? What have you sacrificed to achieve it? Think, people, THINK!<br /><br />With all due respect,<br />Hafiz Khairuddin<br /><br />P/S: Listen to the song "Sweet People" by Alyosha, Ukraine's entry for Eurovision Song Contest 2010..Are-Peace Archiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15183698813410394894noreply@blogger.com0